A three-year-old elephant calf named Fitz has passed away at a zoo from a virus.
The Louisville Zoo in Kentucky announced the unfortunate death of Fitz, a beloved elephant calf, from elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus (EEHV).
The zoo had been treating Fitz for the viral illness but his condition worsened and he died during treatment.
EEHV is a severe disease that affects blood cells and has a low survival rate.
Despite receiving intensive care from the zoo's animal and medical teams, Fitz succumbed to the hemorrhagic disease.
In a press release, the zoo highlighted the lack of a vaccine and the low survival rates associated with the EEHV virus.
The zoo staff had observed lethargy in Fitz and initiated pre-emptive care measures, including antiviral medications and plasma transfusions.
Despite initial signs of improvement, Fitz's condition worsened, and he passed away during his nighttime treatment.
The press release mentioned that EEHV is a significant concern for the zoo and wild elephants, with many elephants carrying the virus since birth.
Louisville Zoo Director, Dan Maloney, said: "We are deeply saddened by the loss of elephant Fitz.
"Fitz held a special place within our entire extended zoo family.
"His presence at our Zoo touched the hearts of our members, patrons and our entire community, inspiring a profound appreciation for elephants and their conservation.
"Our animal and medical teams performed outstandingly.
"They worked tirelessly under very challenging circumstances, but sadly, despite their remarkable efforts, we were unable to save him.
"Fitz’s impact will live on, along with his memory, in the hearts of all who encountered him. He will be deeply missed."
Mikki, Fitz's mother, carries a different strain of EEHV but is not affected.
Fitz did not have the benefit of his mother's antibodies, making it harder for him to fight the virus.
The zoo had received support from other zoos, including blood and plasma donations.
The virus does not pose a threat to other animals or humans.
The zoo plans to perform a necropsy and will announce ways for the public to participate in memorializing Fitz.
